National Night Out set for August 1
 

The 23rd Annual National Night Out will be held Tuesday, August 1, from 6-10 p.m. Sponsored by the Chesterfield Police Department each year, this national event is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for anticrime programs, strengthen police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.

Along with the traditional display of outdoor lights and front porch vigils, citizens across the nation celebrate National Night Out with a variety of activities, including barbecues, ice cream socials, face painting, games, banners, parades, contests and visits from McGruff the Crime Dog.

Last year in Chesterfield County, dozens of neighborhoods celebrated the fight against crime by organizing block parties and other community events.

For more information on how to plan an event in your neighborhood this year, visit www.co.chesterfield.va.us/PublicSafety/Po lice/nightout.asp or email Crime Prevention Officer Bryan Miltenberger at Miltenbergerb@chesterfield.gov.